Moveable element and power generation system for low head facilities

Abstract

A low head power generating system is disclosed including a wall pivotably attachable to a structure for moving between a generally upright position and a generally flat position. In the upright position, the structure or wall impounds water, and has a power generating cell connected to the wall, which rotates by movement of water there-through and is operably connectable to a generator for generating power. A support braces the wall in the upright position. The support is adjustable with a first end connected to the wall and a second end extended against a structure, and can be an inflatable bladder, a pressurized piston or other mechanism to move the wall. The cell can be mounted on the surface of the wall or integrated within the wall.

The invention claimed is: 
     
       1. A power generating system comprising:
 a. a wall pivotably attachable to a structure for moving between a generally upright position and a generally flat position wherein said structure impounds water, said structure comprises a reciprocal depression for insertion of said wall when in the generally flat position; and 
 b. a power generating cell connected to said wall rotatable by movement of water there-through and operably connectable to a generator. 
 
     
     
       2. A power generating system comprising:
 a. a pivotable wall fixedly attachable to the top of a structure that pivots between a generally upright position and a generally flat position wherein said structure impounds water creating an upper pool side; 
 b. a power generating cell operably connected to said wall through movement of water and operably connectable to a generator said cell is fixedly connected to a trash rack on said upper pool side; and 
 c. a supporting member for bracing said wall when in said upright position. 
 
     
     
       3. A power generating system comprising:
 a. a pivotable wall fixedly attachable to the top of a structure that pivots between a generally upright position and a generally flat position wherein said structure impounds water creating an upper pool side; 
 b. a power generating cell operably connected to said wall through movement of water and operably connectable to a generator where said cell is attached to a movable trash rack on said upper pool side; and 
 c. a supporting member for bracing said wall when in said upright position.